Above: Jerry, a puppy who was brought in by his owner when she noticed he could not keep his food down. He was diagnosed quickly and made a full recovery. He is now vaccinated and protected against the parvovirus. What is canine parvovirus?
Canine parvovirus is a common, severe gastrointestinal viral infection of dogs and puppies. This virus can survive in the environment for up to 5 years without a host and can be carried home on clothes, shoes, and by other pets. As many as 50% of infected puppies die from the disease if not diagnosed and treated immediately. The canine parvovirus is extremely contagious and strikes rapidly without warning.
Clinical Signs include sudden onset:
Vomiting
Bloody or profuse diarrhea
Fever
Lack of Energy
Lack of appetite
What does the parvovirus do?
Once the virus enters your pet’s body, it multiples in the bone marrow, intestinal tract and immune system. As the virus matures, it can cause life threatening damage to your pet’s intestinal tract and immune system. Without immediate diagnosis and treatment your pet can die from severe bacterial infection and dehydration.
Prevention: The canine parvovirus can be easily prevented by routine vaccination and keeping new puppies isolated until they have completed a vaccination series for full immunity. The parvovirus has become especially prevalent in the Redwood City Area. We have been seeing an increasing number of parvo cases in puppies. We urge everyone with dogs of any age to vaccinate against this preventable disease.
If your puppy is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact us immediately. The sooner your pet is diagnosed, the sooner lifesaving treatment can be given.
